Manchester United are currently sixth in the Premier League but could still qualify for next season's Champions League if they can make overhaul Chelsea and Arsenal.

Manchester United interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer gestures on the touchline during a Premier League match at Old Trafford, Manchester. PHOTO: Martin Rickett/PA Images

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes that some of his players need a reality check but stopped short of naming names.

The manager has seen a bright start to his tenure fade with the club losing five of their last seven matches.

Solskjaer is looking for more from his players but insists that most have impressed him with their attitude and effort.

Speaking ahead of their clash with Everton, Solskjaer said: “There’s no hiding place and everyone can see what your level is at.

“The performance on the pitch will determine where they’re at — if it’s short term or long term. Most of them have really impressed in their attitude and some need to get a reality check of where they’re at, but most of the players know they can improve if they keep working as they do.”

Solskjaer wouldn’t say which of his players needed to show greater effort but revealed that he has had a conversation with Anthony Martial about what is expected of him.

“I’ve spoken to individuals and they know and Anthony is one I’ve spoken to — what we expect from them,” Solskjaer continued.

“Anthony has got a massive talent, he got a new contract and knows we believe in him so just keep working. I think anyone that plays for Man United has to deliver to stay in the squad and stay in the team and Anthony is no different to Rashy (Marcus Rashford) or Rom (Romelu Lukaku) or Alexis or the many forwards we have to choose from.

“That’s the great thing about it now — it’s down to players.”

Alexis Sanchez is close to making his first team return after an injury layoff.

“We’ll have 20 [players] training this morning [Friday], plus the keepers, which is not bad,” Solskjaer told MUTV.

“Nemanja and Alexis had a good session yesterday [Thursday] as well, so they will probably be involved.”

Ander Herrera is not expected to be fit to face Everton at Goodison Park on Sunday but could be in contention to feature in the Manchester derby.

“The squad is looking good and getting better and better, I have to say,” said Solskjaer.

“Ander is back in training – he’s been working really hard. Eric will be back in training over the weekend, Antonio we’re not sure about yet.”